IT was all change for GCSE pupils this year.
A shake-up of the qualifications has seen a new grading system introduced from 9 down to 1 – replacing the previous A* to U grades.
In comparison, a 9 is higher than the previous A*; 8 is between an A* and A; 7 equal to an A; 6 equivalent to a high B; 5 is between a B and C; 4 equal to a grade C; 3 is between a D and E; 2 between an E and F; 1 a G; while U refers to an ungraded paper.
Most exams are now at the end of a two-year course, rather than on completion of modules, and there are more essay-style questions.
Pupils also have to do at least two science GCSEs, and coursework and assessment are being dropped from most subjects, apart from practical ones such as art and drama.
The Department for Education say the new GCSEs are “more challenging and demanding” and aimed to improve confidence in the qualifications.
But Myton School reported some of its ‘best ever’ GCSE results.
Some 26 per cent of pupils achieved five or more top grades and 18 per cent achieved eight or more – the equivalent to A and A* results.
Top marks went to Hannah Fardoe with eight grade 9s and Sam Lubrano with seven grade 9s.
Headteacher Andy Perry said: “These impressive results are thanks to the hard work and commitment of the students, the dedication of our staff and the support of our parents and carers. They should be very proud of their achievements.”
North Leamington School pupils had top marks with nearly 80 per cent scooping grades 9 to 4 in English, maths and science.
John Alcock, Rufus Bloomfield and Hannah Castle all impressed with ‘above average’ results.
Headteacher Joy Mitchell said: “It has been yet another incredibly challenging year for both students and staff as they have grappled with the demands of the new GCSE regime. I’m however, delighted and very proud of what we have achieved during this turbulent time.”
Trinity Catholic School had an increase to its results, with eight per cent of all marks at grade 9.
Top results went to Vicky Moon, Ben Knight and Hannah Smith.
Headteacher Chris Gabbett said: “It’s really pleasing to continue a journey of improvement at a time that is so difficult for education. As much as I congratulate the students who achieved the highest grades, I am equally proud of those who worked just as hard to complete all exams and work towards their next destination.”
Warwick School celebrated top marks with more than half achieving A*grades or equivalent.
Eleven boys achieved an impressive clean sweep of ten A* grades.
Headteacher Deneal Smith said: “This is another fantastic set of academic results for Warwick School and a testament to the hard work put in by the boys and their teachers.”
Girls at Kings High celebrated top results too.
Nearly 100 per cent scored A* to C grades, with 73 per cent at A* to A.
Headteacher Richard Nicholson said: “I congratulate our girls and our staff for the excellence which is demonstrated by these exceptional results. It is particularly impressive that the girls have achieved so highly at a time of so much change to the GCSE examinations.”
Girls from the Kingsley School saw more than a third pass with five or more 7 to 9 grades.
All passed with A* to C grades or equivalent.
Top marks went to Olivia Griffiths, Molly Maher and Annie Harper Radley.
Headteacher Heather Owens said: “I am thrilled for all of our girls, who have done so well to achieve their individual bests with the first year of a more difficult examination process. I am particularly proud of the value added achieved by our girls, with many grades above estimations on entry, thanks to our strong partnership between students, staff and parents. “
Southam College saw improvements on last year’s results, with 88 per cent achieving a grade 4 in English and maths.
Stand-out marks were achieved by Maisie White, who scooped ten grade nines or equivalent, Molly Versey and Luke Pike.
Assistant headteacher Megan Browne said: “These are superb results and we would like to congratulate all of our students for their tremendous efforts, along with the staff and parents who have provided exceptional support. We are proud of each and every one of our students and wish them all the very best for the future.”
More results as we receive them.
